The weekend ahead might be the most Golden Isles lineup we've seen all summer. You can spend Friday enjoying Gullah cuisine on the waterfront, Saturday painting marsh scenes or exploring local history, and Sunday cheering on local dads as they compete for glory on the SoGlo stage. Throw in some jazz, bingo, books, flowers, and a wellness retreat on Jekyll, and you've got plenty of reasons to get out and explore.

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A new locally focused business is headed to Historic Downtown Brunswick. The team behind Brunswick Mercantile says they're creating a modern gathering place that will celebrate local food, local makers, good coffee, and the community spirit that makes the Golden Isles unique.

According to an announcement this week, the project is still in its early stages, but organizers promise a behind-the-scenes look as the space comes together — from exposed brick and renovations to curated products and community events.

If all goes according to plan, Brunswick Mercantile could become a new downtown destination for shopping, meeting friends, grabbing a coffee, and discovering products made right here in Coastal Georgia.

A few days ago, I came across a Facebook post asking people why they choose to live in the Golden Isles.

As I read through the comments, I found myself nodding along to many of the responses. Some people talked about the slower pace of life. Others mentioned the natural beauty, the sense of community, or simply being close to the water.

The conversation got me thinking about my own journey.

More than 20 years ago, I left the Washington, D.C. area and moved to Brunswick. At the time, I had plenty of assumptions about what life in South Georgia would be like. Some were true. Many weren't.

Read the full article:

https://goldenisleslantern.beehiiv.com/p/why-i-chose-brunswick

🎣 Fly Tying Night
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
🎯 On The Fly Outfitters, 1501 Newcastle Street, Brunswick

Curious about fly fishing or looking to improve your fly-tying skills? This free community gathering welcomes beginners and experienced anglers alike. Bring your own tools and materials, or purchase a beginner kit onsite. Even if you don't tie flies yourself, it's a great chance to meet local anglers and learn something new.

📞 912-342-7086

🤠 Country Western Night with the GISC
6:30 PM
🎯 Ziggy's, St. Simons Island

Dust off the boots and grab your favorite western shirt for an evening of dancing and country fun. The night begins with a Sweetheart Cha-Cha lesson taught by Carlton and Jean, followed by a bonus spontaneous two-step lesson with Jim Benson. Western attire is encouraged, and newcomers are welcome.

🎤 Karaoke Night at Driftwood Wine & Cocktail
Evening Event
🎯 Driftwood Wine & Cocktails, St. Simons Island

Whether you're channeling your inner Dolly Parton, belting out some Journey, or just cheering from the crowd, Driftwood's weekly karaoke night is always a lively affair. Grab a cocktail, pick a song, and enjoy one of the more entertaining people-watching opportunities on the island.

📞 912-222-7053

🌟 Neon Night
9:00 PM – 2:00 AM
🎯 Rafters, 315 Mallery Street, St. Simons Island

Things get bright after dark at Rafters' Neon Night party. DJs OTR and N3ktunes will keep the dance floor moving while guests show off their brightest outfits. Expect glow-worthy photo opportunities, party favors, and plenty of late-night energy.

🎣 Elks Lodge Fish Fry
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
🎯 Brunswick Elks Lodge, 1509 Union Street, Brunswick

Looking for an old-school Friday lunch special? The Brunswick Elks Lodge is serving up a classic fish fry featuring two pieces of fish, coleslaw, cheese grits, hush puppies, tea, and dessert for just $12. Delivery is available for orders of five or more, making this an easy office lunch option if you're feeding a crowd.

💵 $12 per plate

☀️ Summer Kickoff Party
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
🎯 Rafters, 315 Mallery Street, St. Simons Island

School’s out and summer is officially here. Rafters is celebrating with an afternoon party featuring giveaways, summer vibes, and plenty of reasons to stay awhile before heading into the evening’s festivities around the Village.

🍤 Taste of Gullah
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
🎯 Village Creek Landing, 526 South Harrington Road, St. Simons Island

One of the Golden Isles’ signature cultural events returns with an evening dedicated to the flavors, stories, and traditions of Gullah Geechee heritage. Guests can enjoy authentic cuisine, live entertainment, and a beautiful waterfront setting while supporting the preservation of Historic Harrington School. Expect incredible food, powerful cultural storytelling, and one of the most unique evenings on the coast this summer.

💵 $75 per person

🔗 Tickets & Info: eventbrite.com/e/taste-of-gullah-tickets-1981347624080

🎨 Friday Night Sip & Paint: Shrimp Boat Out to Sea
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🎯 The Studio, 111 North Walton Street, Darien

Grab your favorite beverage and create your own coastal masterpiece during this guided paint night inspired by one of Georgia’s most iconic sights—a shrimp boat heading out to sea. No experience is required and all supplies are included.

🔗 Tickets & Info: darienstudio.com/book-a-class/ola/services/friday-night-sip-paint-shrimp-boat-out-to-sea

🎵 Her Night In
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
🎯 New Roots Glynn, 1507 Reynolds Street, Brunswick

A monthly gathering designed for women looking for meaningful conversation, reflection, connection, and a little time to recharge. Expect tea, wellness-centered activities, and a welcoming atmosphere.

🎷 Sounds of Freedom: Juneteenth Celebration
7:00 PM Doors • 8:00 PM Concert
🎯 Ritz Theatre, 1530 Newcastle Street, Brunswick

Celebrate Juneteenth with an evening of jazz featuring the Phil Morrison–Ken Trimmins Jazz Collective and a lineup of acclaimed regional musicians. The concert honors the history and significance of Juneteenth while celebrating the possibilities that emerge when community, culture, and music come together.

💵 $20 Adults • $5 Students

🎱 Late Night Mack’s
9:00 PM – Midnight
🎯 Mack’s Bar-B-Que, 6900 New Jesup Highway, Brunswick

Looking for a laid-back late-night option? Mack’s is keeping the doors open late with pool tables, cold drinks, gaming machines, and plenty of room to unwind after a busy Friday around town.

🎬 FILM: Mother Mary
9:45 PM
🎯 SoGlo Theatre, 1409 Newcastle Street, Brunswick

The latest film showing at SoGlo Theatre follows an iconic pop star reconnecting with her estranged best friend and former costume designer on the eve of a major comeback performance. And like much of A24…it looks pretty creepy (in a good way). Rated R.

🔗 Tickets & Info: soglo.eventive.org/films/6a2197ca4e12cb16e8f30f43

🎨 Beginning Watercolor: Marsh Magic!
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
🎯 Glynn Visual Arts, 106 Island Drive, St. Simons Island

Learn the basics of watercolor while creating artwork inspired by Coastal Georgia’s iconic marshes. Instructor Lily Le Oetjen will guide participants through essential techniques in a beginner-friendly setting. All materials are provided.

💵 $45 Members • $50 Non-Members

🔗 Tickets & Info: glynnvisualarts.org/beginning-watercolor-marsh-magic

📖 Freedom Stories
10:30 AM
🎯 Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation Historic Site, 5556 US Highway 17 North, Brunswick

Step into the past during this powerful guided walk through Broadfield Cemetery. Visitors will hear the stories of individuals born into slavery who later gained their freedom, learning about lives marked by resilience, faith, and determination. This thoughtful Juneteenth-themed program offers a meaningful look at local history and the people who helped shape coastal Georgia.

💵 Adults $8.75 • Seniors $6.50 • Youth $5.50 • Children 5 & Under Free

📚 Jacqueline Thomas Book Signing
4:00 PM
🎯 Respect for Life Bookstore, 1600 Albany Street, Brunswick

Meet author Jacqueline Thomas as she discusses her latest books, answers questions, and signs copies for readers. Books will be available for purchase during the event.

🎺 Silver Bluff Music Series: Let’s Ride Brass Band
7:00 PM
🎯 Silver Bluff Brewing Company, 1325 Newcastle Street, Brunswick

Silver Bluff’s summer concert series continues with Let’s Ride Brass Band bringing big energy, lively rhythms, and plenty of reasons to stay for another round. Grab a craft beer, settle into the beer garden, and enjoy one of downtown Brunswick’s favorite summer traditions.

🎱 Bingo Night at Mack’s Bar-B-Que
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
🎯 Mack’s Bar-B-Que, 6900 New Jesup Highway, Brunswick

Summer bingo is back at Mack’s. Expect food, drinks, plenty of laughs, and prize winners every 15 minutes throughout the evening. Bring your bingo crew and get ready to shout “BINGO!”

🎧 Saturday Night with DJ Jamie Eubanks
Evening
🎯 Driftwood Wine & Cocktails, St. Simons Island

Saturday nights get a little livelier with DJ Jamie Eubanks providing the soundtrack. Expect upbeat music, handcrafted cocktails, and a fun crowd enjoying a night out in the Village.

🎬 FILM: Mother Mary
9:45 PM
🎯 SoGlo Theatre, 1409 Newcastle Street, Brunswick

Missed Friday’s showing? Catch another screening of this drama centered around friendship, fame, and long-buried emotions as an international pop star prepares for her return to the spotlight.

🔗 Tickets & Info: soglo.eventive.org/films/6a2197ca4e12cb16e8f30f43

💐 Father’s Day Bloom Bar + Vinyls & Vibes
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
🎯 Brown Butter Shoppe, 1614 Newcastle Street, Brunswick

Build a custom bouquet while browsing records and enjoying laid-back vinyl tunes. Whether you're shopping for Father’s Day or simply enjoying a relaxing downtown Sunday, this event blends flowers, music, and community into one charming afternoon.

👑 The Golden Isles Dad Pageant
2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
🎯 SoGlo Theatre, 1409 Newcastle Street, Brunswick

Possibly the most Golden Isles event of the weekend. Dads take the stage with their kids or spouses to compete for local bragging rights through talent showcases, dad jokes, games, and audience voting. Expect plenty of laughs, friendly competition, and peak dad energy.

💵 $15 Admission • Children 5 & Under Free

🔗 Tickets & Info: soglo.eventive.org/schedule/6a26d86bc3f0485a141de1fd

💃 The Goddess Retreat 2026
Begins Friday at Noon
🎯 Villas by the Sea Resort & Conference Center, Jekyll Island

A full weekend retreat focused on wellness, connection, movement, and self-care. Participants can enjoy yoga, meditation, belly dancing, beach time, workshops, and opportunities to recharge while surrounded by the beauty of Jekyll Island. If your ideal weekend involves slowing down, reconnecting, and meeting like-minded people, this may be the perfect escape.

Live shows data courtesy of I’m With the Band

🎤 Tony Adams' Birthday Bash w/ Special Guests @ Bennie's Red Barn/Tree Bar, SSI – 7pm
🎸 Josh Bruen @ El Dorado, Jesup – 7-10pm
🎵 Johnny White @ Fish Tales Pub & Grill, SSI – 6-9pm
🎙️ Songbird Open Mic Night @ Hootenanny's BBQ, Brunswick – 6-8pm
🎶 Annie Akins @ Little Zooks, Brunswick – 6-9pm
🎸 The Band Honey @ Mullet Bay, SSI – 8-11pm
🎵 Roy Gentry @ Ocean Lodge Resort, SSI – 6-9pm
🪕 The Pine Box Dwellers @ Reed's Ponderosa, Tarboro – 6:30pm
☕ Hot Banana Coffee @ Reid's Apothecary/The Study, Brunswick – 9pm
🎸 Gavin Allen @ Strand Bistro/Chophouse, Jesup – 6:30-9:30pm
🎤 Crawford & Co. Songwriters' Round @ Tipsy McSway's, Brunswick – 7pm
🎵 Rob Willis @ Tortuga Jack's, Jekyll Island – 5-8pm
🎸 Joey Thigpen & Keith Dean @ Village Inn & Pub, SSI – 8-11pm
🎶 WharfRatz @ Wee Pub Beach, Jekyll Island – 7-10pm
🎵 Rider Trio @ The Wharf, Jekyll Island – 6-9pm

🎸 Uncle Dave Griffin @ Boondox Tavern, Brunswick – 4pm
🎵 Braxton Sykes @ Beachcomber BBQ, SSI – 5-8pm
🎤 Rider @ King & Prince Oceanfront Lawn, SSI – 5-8pm
🎶 Freddie Britt & Company & Gullah Geechee Ring Shouters @ Taste of Gullah, Village Creek Landing, SSI – 5-7pm (Sold Out)
🎸 Live Music @ Coastal Cucina, Jekyll Island – 5-8pm
🎤 Ryan Wilson @ Hootenanny's BBQ, Brunswick – 5-8pm
🎵 Maple Street Band @ Bubba Garcia's, SSI – 6-9pm
🎶 Caleb Swain @ Eighty Ocean Kitchen & Bar, Jekyll Island – 6-9pm
🎹 Jerry Gowen @ Georgia Sea Grill, SSI – 6:30-9:30pm
🎸 Whiskey Heart Duo @ Captain Stan's Smokehouse, Woodbine – 6:30pm
🎤 Brent Browning @ Westin High Tide Bar, Jekyll Island – 6-9pm
🎶 Reggae Night w/ Rastar @ La Playa Park, Brunswick – 6-9pm
🎵 Cliff Bragdon @ Sago at Sea Palms, SSI – 6-9pm
🎸 Jamie Renee Walker @ Shore Restaurant, Jekyll Island – 6-9pm
🎤 Gabe Spell @ The Wharf, Jekyll Island – 6-9pm
🎶 Lanie Mae @ El Dorado, Jesup – 7-10pm
☕ Hot Banana Coffee @ Ember/Mas Lounge, SSI – 7-10pm
🎸 Roy Gentry @ Fish Dock Bar & Grill, Townsend – 7-10pm
🎵 TacoCaT @ Fish Tales Pub & Grill, Brunswick – 7-10pm
🎶 Backbeat Boulevard @ Gnat's Landing, SSI – 7-10pm
🪕 The Pine Box Dwellers @ The Hangout Bar & Grill, Brunswick – 7-10pm
🎺 Sounds of Freedom Juneteenth Celebration ft. Phil Morrison–Ken Trimmins Jazz Collective @ Ritz Theatre, Brunswick – 8pm
🎸 Whiskey Run @ River's Edge Bar & Grill, Darien – 7-10pm
🎵 Little Satilla @ Strand Bistro/Chophouse, Jesup – 7-10pm
🎶 Live Music @ Three Oaks Steak & Seafood, Brunswick – 7-10pm
🎸 Pier Pressure @ Tipsy McSway's, Brunswick – 7-10pm
🎤 Levi Moore @ Toucans Ale House, Brunswick – 7-10pm
🎵 Thunderbird Blues Band @ Tribuzio's Grille, Jekyll Island – 6-9pm
🪕 Acoustic Bluegrass/Gospel Jam @ Woodbine Opry – 7pm
🎸 Live Music @ Bennie's Red Barn/Tree Bar, SSI – 9pm
🎵 Giant DeNiro @ Rafters, SSI – 9pm-Midnight
🎶 Live Music @ Reid's Apothecary/The Study, Brunswick – 9pm
🎸 SaltWater Gypseas @ Mullet Bay, SSI – 8-11pm
🎵 Frost Bros. Band @ Village Inn & Pub, SSI – 8-11pm

🎵 Hot Banana Coffee @ King City Kitchen, SSI – Noon-4pm
🎸 Sidetone w/ Joe Alongi @ The Wharf, Jekyll Island – Noon-3pm
🎶 Rider @ Founder's Social, Jekyll Island – 1-4pm
🎵 JayBone & Friends @ Tortuga Jack's, Jekyll Island – 1-4pm
🎤 Ted Stuckey @ 24 Coastal Grill, Jekyll Island – 5-8pm
🎸 Dallas Rodgers @ The Hangout Bar & Grill, Brunswick – 5-8pm
🎵 Roy Gentry & Hired Guns @ Heritage Oaks Golf Club, Brunswick – 5-8pm
🎶 John Belt @ Coastal Cucina, Jekyll Island – 5-8pm
🎤 Bluff 5 Band @ Tribuzio's Grille, Jekyll Island – 6-9pm
🎸 Brent Browning @ Westin High Tide Bar, Jekyll Island – 6-9pm
🎵 Gypsy Trane @ La Playa Park, Brunswick – 6-9pm
🎶 Lanie Mae @ The Local, Nahunta – 6-9pm
🎤 Jeff Allyn Szwast @ Shore Restaurant, Jekyll Island – 6-9pm
🎸 Live Music @ Ocean Lodge Resort, SSI – 6-9pm
🎵 Still Waters Memorial Concert for Walt Hope ft. Bonnie Blue & The Willis Gore Band @ Darien Waterfront Park – 6-9pm
🎺 Let's Ride Brass Band @ Silver Bluff Brewing Co., Brunswick – 7-10pm
🎸 Brody Williams Band @ Strand Bistro/Chophouse, Jesup – 7-10pm
🎵 Wasabi Rush @ Tipsy McSway's, Brunswick – 7-10pm
🎶 Live Music @ Gnat's Landing, SSI – 7-10pm
🎤 Opal Moon @ Fish Dock Bar & Grill, Townsend – 7-10pm
🎸 Rider @ Wiley's Top Shelf, Waycross – 7:30-10:30pm
🎵 Gabe Spell @ Village Inn & Pub, SSI – 8-11pm
🎶 7 Street Band @ Mullet Bay, SSI – 8-11pm
🪕 The Pine Box Dwellers @ Reid's Apothecary/The Study, Brunswick – 9pm
🎸 Maple Street Band @ Bennie's Red Barn/Tree Bar, SSI – 9pm
🎵 Last Call @ Bubba's Up, SSI – 10:30pm

🎸 Dexter Jones @ La Playa Park, Brunswick – 11am-2pm
🎵 Roy Gentry @ Marshside Grill, Brunswick – 11:30am-2:30pm
🎤 Josh Nunn & Mike Alongi @ Bubba Garcia's, SSI – Noon-3pm
🎶 Cliff Bragdon @ Bubba's at Mary Ross Park, Brunswick – Noon-3pm
🎵 Live Music @ Coastal Kitchen, SSI – Noon-3pm
🎸 Live Music @ Founders Social, Jekyll Island – Noon-3pm
🎶 Peyton Chambless @ Emerald Princess II Casino, Brunswick Dock – 1-6pm
🎵 Backbeat Boulevard @ Tortuga Jack's, Jekyll Island – 1-4pm
🎤 Dexter Jones @ Cactus Mexican Restaurant, Brunswick – 3-6pm
🎸 Joe King @ Captain Stan's Smokehouse, Woodbine – 3-6pm
🎶 Gabe Thrift @ Uptown Tap & Cigar, SSI – 3-6pm
☕ Hot Banana Coffee @ Beachcomber BBQ, SSI – 5-8pm
🎵 Rachel Thompson @ The Hangout, Brunswick – 5-8pm
🎸 Live Music @ JI Beach House – 5-8pm
🎶 Live Music @ Mullet Bay, SSI – 5-8pm
🪕 The Pine Box Dwellers @ Gnat's Landing, SSI – 6-9pm
🎤 Gypsea Jam Open Mic @ River's Edge Bar & Grill, Darien – 7-10pm

Did we miss something? Have an event to share? Interested in advertising with us? Drop us a line at [email protected]!